How to Travel with a Wheelchair in Ohio

The great state of Ohio offers no end of activities and events for residents and visitors alike. From bustling cities like Columbus and Cleveland to scenic parks and historical sites, Ohio has something for everyone.

For individuals traveling with a wheelchair, Ohio can be a wonderfully accommodating destination—provided that some thoughtful planning is done in advance.

Plan your route

Anticipate Travel Challenges

Planning your trip well ahead of time is one of the best ways to ensure a smooth travel experience. For those with medical conditions or mobility limitations, avoiding traffic congestion and minimizing transit time can significantly reduce stress and fatigue.

Use tools like Google Maps, Waze, and Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) alerts to identify potential construction zones, detours, or traffic bottlenecks. Rush hour in cities like Columbus or Cincinnati can add substantial delays to your trip.

Accessible Transit and Airport Support

If you're flying into Ohio, Cleveland Hopkins International Airport and John Glenn Columbus International Airport both offer wheelchair assistance, but it's important to notify your airline at least 48 hours in advance. Upon arrival, you'll find accessible shuttles, elevators, family restrooms, and security staff trained in disability support.

If traveling by Amtrak, wheelchair-accessible seating and restrooms are available on many lines. However, not all stops have full accessibility, so check your specific route in advance.

Stay where you want

Hotel Accessibility

Ohio is home to a range of hotels that comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. These hotels often feature:

• Wheelchair accessible bathrooms

• Roll-in showers

• Lowered sinks and counters

• Grab bars in bathrooms

• Wide entryways and maneuverable rooms

Major hotel chains like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt tend to provide consistent accessibility standards across locations. When booking, it’s helpful to call ahead and verify that the specific features you need will be available.

While most hotels that comply with ADA Guidelines offer great accessibility for wheelchair users, you may wish to save money or enjoy greater flexibility in location by booking with AirBnB.

While many private residences are not wheelchair accessible, AirBnB also plays host to thousands of purpose-built sites which feature everything from wheelchair ramps to walk-in bathtubs.

When booking with AirBnB, make sure to filter via 'Accessibility features'.

Note: whether you book with a hotel or AirBnB, it helps to book far in advance to ensure you enjoy a wider choice.

Check the weather

Ohio's varied climate make for dramatic winters and perfect summers, often serving to highlight the state's famous scenery.

Seasonal Considerations

Ohio’s climate is known for its variety:

• Winter (Dec–Feb): Cold, with snow and ice that can create challenges for wheelchair navigation

• Spring (Mar–May): Unpredictable; rain showers may affect trail and park access

• Summer (Jun–Aug): Warm and sunny—perfect for exploring accessible outdoor attractions

• Fall (Sep–Nov): Mild temperatures and beautiful foliage, though wet leaves may create slippery paths

Before any excursion, check the forecast from the National Weather Service or a local app like OHGO, which provides real-time road and weather updates.

Impact on Outdoor Activities

Trails like the Hinckley Lake Inner Loop, Blackhand Gorge Trail, or Cuyahoga Valley National Park’s Towpath Trail offer exceptional accessibility—but only when dry and clear. Snow or mud can turn even paved paths into hazards, so always double-check trail conditions and call park visitor centers when in doubt.

Ohio State Parks typically note wheelchair accessibility on their websites, but it's wise to check seasonal advisories.

Things to Do: Wheelchair Accessible Attractions in Ohio

Explore Nature

• Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Offers wheelchair-accessible boardwalks, restrooms, and interpretive programs.

• Franklin Park Conservatory (Columbus): Fully ADA-compliant with automatic doors, ramps, and accessible restrooms.

• Hocking Hills State Park: Certain trails like the Ash Cave Trail are paved and wheelchair accessible.

Experience Arts & Culture

• Cleveland Museum of Art: Free admission, wheelchair rentals, accessible entrances and elevators.

• Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (Cleveland): ADA-compliant with family restrooms and seating for guests using wheelchairs.

• Toledo Museum of Art: Features wide paths and accessible exhibit halls.

Enjoy Entertainment

• Ohio Stadium (Columbus): Offers wheelchair and companion seating, elevator access, and shuttle services for guests with disabilities during events.

• Cedar Point Amusement Park: Known for its Accessibility Guide and Ride Boarding Pass Program for individuals with mobility limitations.

• Columbus Zoo and Aquarium: Provides complimentary manual wheelchair rentals and sensory-friendly days.

Consider Durable Medical Equipment Needs

If you require Durable Medical Equipment (DME) such as ramps, oxygen tanks, portable lifts, or specialized cushions, consider working with a local medical supply provider who can deliver equipment to your hotel or Airbnb. Companies like NPL Home Medical specialize in the rental and servicing of essential DME, including custom wheelchairs tailored to your needs.

Bringing your own equipment? Don’t forget to pack spare parts, charging cables, and any repair tools necessary to keep your devices functioning throughout your trip.

Ohio Disabled Placard and Parking Tips

Applying for a Disabled Placard

Ohio offers temporary and permanent disabled placards for residents and visitors with qualifying mobility impairments. If you’re a resident, you can apply through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) with a physician’s certification.

Out-of-state visitors with valid disabled parking permits from their home state are allowed to use accessible parking in Ohio. Be sure to display your placard clearly on your dashboard or rearview mirror.

Parking Access

In Ohio, vehicles with a valid placard can use:

• ADA-reserved parking spaces in public and private lots

• Metered spaces without payment (in many municipalities)

• Drop-off zones near building entrances

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Always double-check local signage and regulations to avoid citations.

See you soon!

Travelling with a wheelchair in Ohio can be fun and safe. It helps to do some research in advance.